“My wish came TRUE!”
That’s what my little girl exclaimed when we woke up to see the first snow of winter blanketing the ground. There is always something magical about that first snow. Hopes of snuggly snow days, sledding, and hot cocoa are suddenly more real. There are so many moments you want to keep forever when it comes to your babies in the snow. Whether you are using a cell phone camera, a big DSLR, or something in between, snow days are perfect for taking pictures of kids just being kids.
1. Watching the First Snow
To see the world through the eyes of someone brand new…that is one of the best parts of having a child. The awe, wonder, and excitement of the first snow can’t always be contained in a photograph, but we can sure try!
2. Helping Shovel Snow
Child labor was never so much fun! Kid-sized snow shovels are a must when you live in Iowa.
3. Snow Prints
The best part of letting kids explore in the snow is the details they leave behind.
4. Making Tracks
Making tracks is one of the simplest pleasures of playing in the snow when you are a kid.
5. Selfie with a Snowman…or Snowbaby!
Every winter calls for making a snowman. I get out the dress-up clothes to encourage kids to think beyond Frosty. A snow princess or superhero? How about a snow pirate or fairy? There are so many fun possibilities!
5. Sledding: Hills Optional
Hand the camera off to someone else and get in the frame, mama. Your babies need to see that you were there, too! Running with the sled is just as exciting as going down a hill for the little ones. Even if they spill…opps!
6. Making and Throwing Snowballs
Telling a kid they can throw a snowball at your belly button is sure to get some good photos. Look at those faces!
7. Watching the Snowplow
It never gets old for the five and under crowd!
8. Eating Snow
Let’s face it, kids eat snow. You might as well photograph it while you make sure it’s not yellow.
9. Pink Cheeks + Hat Hair
Oh, sweet snow cheeks! When you come back inside and everyone’s hair is a bit crazy, but they are so contentedly exhausted from a romp in the snow…that’s the look I go for in this photo. Then, it’s hot cocoa time!
10. Wearing Red + Snowy Bush
You’ll know it’s time for this photo when nice, sticky snow floats down, coating all the trees and bushes like a winter wonderland. Dress your kiddo in something red and get out there! The red always pops against the snowy backdrop. Not to mention that fresh, white snow not only makes for happy kids, but it’s a great reflector for light. You might just nail your Christmas Card photo!
This top 10 photo list holds many of the details I’ll want to remember when that first snow falls, and no one in my house is begging to go out. Looking back at these photos, I’ll know we made the most of it.